Abstract
Background: Dysmenorrhea has a negative impact on the quality of life of affected females. For example, dysmenorrhea might negatively affect relationships, academic and professional performance, and social and recreational activities. The study aim to find the prevalence, types, predisposing factors and management options of dysmenorrhea in the western area of Saudi Arabia.
Methods: This was a cross sectional community based study, conducted in Western area of Saudi Arabia on 476 females aged 10-52 years, during the period from 1 March to 31 June 2018. Data was collected using a pre-designed online self-administered questionnaire included the relevant questions to collect data about socio-demographic characteristics and special habits of the participants, menstrual cycle related data and data related to menstrual pain, how to deal with menstrual pain and using drugs for menstrual pain.
Results: Our study reported the prevalence of dysmenorrhea was 83.6%; 59.3% was moderate pain, 29.1% severe and only 10.6% mild. The majority were non-smokers 80.6% (p=0.888).). About half (53.5%) of dysmenorrhea cases was suffering from continuous stress (p=0.325). From dysmenorrhea cases, 70.8% had regular menstruation and 29.1% had irregular menstruations, 41.2% had menarche at 13-14 years old and only 1.7% had menarche at >= 17 years olds.
Conclusion: A high prevalence of dysmenorrhea was detected among female in the western area of Saudi Arabia. Advanced large-scale researches, health education programs, and health promotion are recommended.